A fierce match unfolded as PSMS Medan had to acknowledge the superiority of Persekat Tegal with a score of 0-2 in a tense game held at Tri Sanja Stadium, Tegal.
Despite applying pressure and creating several golden opportunities, PSMS failed to convert their chances into goals, while the visiting team displayed efficiency and discipline.
From the opening minutes, PSMS played aggressively. Several chances were created through fast-attacking schemes and set pieces, but a lack of composure in the finishing touch caused one opportunity after another to go to waste.
In contrast, Persekat showed high efficiency. From the chances they had, two were successfully converted into goals, the first by Atieda and the second scored by Arsyad Yusgiantoro.
Persekat’s first goal became a point of focus as it was deemed controversial. In the process, there was an incident where Atieda, the goal scorer, pushed a PSMS player before the ball ended up in the net. However, the referee still validated the goal.
The PSMS coach spoke about the match result and that crucial moment.
“We had many opportunities that we couldn’t utilize to score a goal, while Persekat’s chances were converted into goals. That’s football; we lost two-nil. They were very disciplined, making it difficult for us. We had chances but couldn’t score, which is very unfortunate,” said the coach after the match.
Regarding the first goal considered controversial, he mentioned there was a push against his player. However, he acknowledged that Persekat Tegal played disciplined, making it hard for PSMS.
“There was a slight push on our player for the first goal, but that’s football. Persekat also played very disciplined,” he stated.
The coach still believed his squad had fought to their maximum but acknowledged that Persekat’s effectiveness and discipline were the difference-makers in the match.
Meanwhile, a PSMS player, who accompanied the coach at the post-match press conference, displayed a sporting attitude after the game. He congratulated the opponent and emphasized that his team would immediately regroup.
“Congratulations to Persekat Tegal. This is a very disappointing result for us, but it’s not over. We are focused on the next match, and we will definitely conduct an evaluation, first of ourselves and then of the whole team,” he said.
This defeat presents homework for PSMS to bounce back quickly ahead of their next away match against FC Bekasi City. A comprehensive evaluation is promised to improve performance in the next game and keep hopes alive for competing in the 2025/2026 Championship.
